By: Bayero Ade
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Ibadan, Maj.-Gen. Obinna Onubogu, has urged officers and soldiers to remain vigilant and keep miscreants and criminals at bay to ensure peace across the country.
According to NAN, Maj.-Gen. Onubogu made this call on Saturday during the 2024 West African Social Activities (WASA) event held at the 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Cantonment, Akure.
The West African Social Activities (WASA) is an annual tradition in the Nigerian Army, marking the end of a successful training year and the beginning of a new one. The event also provides a relaxed environment for officers, soldiers, their families, and community members to interact and foster stronger bonds.
As the special guest of honor, Maj.-Gen. Onubogu commended the 32 Brigade for fostering peaceful coexistence with host communities, which has bolstered public confidence in the military. He lauded their efforts in curbing criminal activities, especially during the festive season, and highlighted the successes recorded in the 2024 training year.
“The 2024 training cycle ended successfully with notable achievements in tackling criminal activities within the brigade, particularly during the yuletide,” he said. “We are grateful to the commander, officers, and soldiers of the 32 Brigade for ensuring the safety of lives and properties in Ondo and Ekiti States. I encourage you to sustain your efforts and ensure that in 2025, all miscreants and anyone threatening the peace are kept at bay.”
Maj.-Gen. Onubogu also expressed gratitude to the governments of Ondo and Ekiti States, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), and President Bola Tinubu for their unwavering support of the Nigerian Army. He assured that the division remains committed to securing the nation.
In his remarks, the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Maj.-Gen. John Lar, called on the government, religious institutions, and traditional rulers to continue supporting the Army’s fight against crime. He emphasized the need for inter-agency collaboration and a collective societal approach to tackle contemporary security challenges.
“No single security agency can address these challenges alone. We need cooperation from state and local governments, communities, religious and traditional leaders, and other stakeholders to achieve a safe and secure 2025,” he said.
Maj.-Gen. Lar commended the brigade’s troops for their professionalism in 2024 and encouraged them to build on their successes. He reiterated the brigade’s commitment to providing a secure environment for social and economic activities to thrive in Ondo and Ekiti States.
The event featured cultural dances, a bonfire, a tug-of-war competition, and awards for outstanding personnel, among other highlights.
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